Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started

Why a hardware wallet matters

A hardware wallet stores your private keys offline, which helps protect your cryptocurrency from online threats such as phishing, malware, and exchange hacks. Using a trusted hardware device is one of the most practical steps you can take to increase the security of your digital assets.

Quick link to the start page

Use the official setup page when you first configure your Ledger device. We repeat this link below several times so you can easily click while following steps.

Step-by-step: Unboxing & first setup

What you’ll need (before you start)

• A Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X) — unopened box recommended.
• A computer or compatible mobile device with a USB port (or Bluetooth for supported devices).
• Stable internet to install Ledger Live and download the device firmware/apps.
• A safe, offline place to write down and store your recovery phrase (do not store digitally).

Initial setup — high level

1. Go to the official setup page: Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®.
2. Download and install Ledger Live on your computer or phone.
3. Power on your Ledger device and follow the on-screen prompts to create a new wallet or restore an existing one.
4. Write the recovery phrase on the provided card (or other secure medium). Keep it offline and never share it.
5. Install the apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, etc.) using Ledger Live, then add accounts.

Tip: Creating strong physical security habits

Treat your recovery phrase like the master key to your funds. Store it in at least two physically separate secure locations if you need redundancy (e.g., bank safe, home safe). Avoid taking photos or typing it into cloud-synced notes.

Using Ledger Live and connecting apps

Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile companion application. It lets you install/remove currency apps on the device, manage accounts, check balances, and send/receive transactions while keeping your private keys secure on the device.

Connect, install, and add accounts

• Open Ledger Live → set up or unlock.
• Connect your Ledger device via USB or Bluetooth, follow prompts to allow the connection.
• Install currency apps on the device from Ledger Live's Manager.
• Add accounts within Ledger Live — each account corresponds to a public address derived from your device’s seed.

Security reminder

Ledger or any legitimate wallet provider will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase, PIN, or private keys over email, chat, or phone. If someone requests that information claiming to be support, treat it as a scam.

Troubleshooting common problems

Device not recognized by your computer

Try a different USB port or cable, ensure Ledger Live is up to date, and check that the device screen displays the expected "Welcome" or "Allow Ledger Manager" message. Reboot the computer if necessary.

Forgot your PIN

If you enter the wrong PIN too many times the device will wipe itself. You can restore using the recovery phrase on the official start page and Ledger Live: Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®.

Lost recovery phrase

If you lose the recovery phrase and the device is wiped or damaged, funds cannot be recovered. The recovery phrase is the final authority — back it up securely.

Advanced tips & best practices

Use a passphrase for an extra layer

A passphrase (sometimes called the 25th word) adds a second layer of protection to your seed. If used, it creates separate hidden wallets — be sure you securely remember or store the passphrase, because losing it can lock you out.

Regular firmware & app updates

Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware up to date to benefit from security improvements and new features. Always update via Ledger Live and avoid unofficial firmware sources.

Managing multiple accounts

Use Ledger Live to label and organize accounts. For large holdings consider splitting funds across multiple accounts or devices to reduce single-point risk.

Simple checklist before sending funds

• Confirm the receiving address carefully (compare the first and last groups of characters).
• Verify the transaction details on the device screen and only confirm on the hardware device.
• Double-check network/fee settings for the token you’re sending.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can Ledger recover my funds if my device is stolen?

Yes — as long as you have the recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new device or compatible wallet. Always use official recovery processes from Ledger Live or compatible software.

Is Ledger safe for long-term storage?

Hardware wallets like Ledger are considered a strong option for long-term custody because private keys remain offline. Combine with strong physical security for the recovery phrase for best results.

Conclusion & next steps

Setting up a Ledger device and following the official start guide helps secure your crypto holdings. Use the official resources during setup and when restoring devices. Bookmark the official page and follow security best practices—hardware wallets significantly reduce many common risks but they require disciplined handling.

Start here (official): Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®

// Example: Always verify addresses on-device; do not rely only on copy-paste
// Pseudocode for verification step
displayAddressOnDevice(address);
userConfirms = device.buttonPress() && device.screenShows(address);
if (!userConfirms) {
  abortTransaction();
}